Preparing for coaching sessions: Coach

Recommended good practice is to spend at least 15 to 20 minutes preparing for a coaching session. This time should be spent:

  • Reviewing previous coaching conversations with this coachee and planning how to approach this session
  • Reflecting on the questions, which might give them insight into the issue they are bringing for discussion today. (It is to be expected that they will send you a brief email outlining what they want to talk about, at least a few hours ahead.)
  • Preparing mentally for the coaching session, so you are in a relaxed, open and creative mental state.

Some useful questions to structure your reflections:

  • What issues did we discuss last time?
  • What do we want to do to review progress on this and other issues?
  • How have I helped this coachee in the past?
  • What concerns do I have about this conversation? Am I looking forward to it?
  • What feedback do I want to give the coachee? How do I expect them to respond (or how can I make sure they respond positively?)
  • What do my instincts tell me about this coachee and their current/ long-term needs?
  • What do I need to do to create a safe and open environment for the coaching conversation?
  • (Line manager as coach only) How might I be contributing to the problems the coachee is experiencing?

© David Clutterbuck. All rights reserved

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